France - ideally situated in the heart of Europe - has always been a popular gay travel destination. The age of consent is 15. 2013 marked a milestone in the political wranglings over the legal equalization of same-sex cvil unions with marriage. With the Pacs for civil unions between homosexuals as well as heterosexuals in force since 1999, the new socialist president François Hollande has promised, in his 2012 election campaign, that he would push for complete marriage equality. Since the socialists have gained large majorities, "gay marriage" could come through despite the massive opposition of conservatives and the Church. Radical conservatives repeatedly organized mass protests, some of which resorted to violence, during the legislative process. The period was also attended by rapidly increasing reports of physical violence against homosexuals and gay facilities. The complete equalization in terms of adoption law also drew particular criticism. The protests ebbed away again once the highly controversial law had been passed and found to be constitutional. The Pacs continues to apply in all other respects. The mastery of foreign languages is not one of the strengths of the French, but they are charming and show off their home country and its temptations with pride. In a European comparison, France has the largest number of saunas and sex clubs, proving once again that the French live their sexuality very freely.
The country is famous for its varied landscapes, Mediterranean and Atlantic coastlines, clothing optional beaches, traditional festivals and cuisine. Gay Pride events take place in various cities. The Paris Gay Pride has been attracting around 700,000 people for years.

The Willows Inn, located within the gay and lesbian Castro district of San Francisco, has twelve guestrooms. Housed in a 1900 Edwardian mansion, the inn offers an expanded continental breakfast and evening cocktail service... more